And so it ends 1-1. Archie Thompson kicked things off with a goal inside the first five but for long spells in this match it was the DPR Korea who looked the more energetic side and they held far more of the ball then the Socceroos. Into the second half it was speculated the tired bodies of the Australians would begin to fatigue and so it was the case, with a goal after 64 minutes just deserts for the Australian back four, which dropped far too deep.

With Australia set to end up level on points with tonight’s opponent should they beat Guam and Chinese Taipei, qualification will more than likely come down to goal difference. With DPR Korea already on +10, the Socceroos may need to win their last two by a collective margin of 15 goals.

Sorry to say, but the blame lies with Holger for that. Played the same 10 outfield players from 2 days ago. Made 2 out of 3 subs, and then only after the North Koreans equalised, when it could be seen that they were on top by that stage and we need to wrestle control of the game back.

Ouch. That was probably the chance. Rogic releases Franjic who whips a cross to the back post, and McKay crashes his shot over the bar and into the top of the net. Disappointing result, and the image of Osieck on the sideline probably indicates that.